---
title: Sky View Observatory
slug: sky-view-observatory-seattle
type: attraction
sub_type: observatories
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/sky-view-observatory-seattle
city: Seattle
state: WA
country: US
address: 700 4th Avenue
geo:
  lat: 47.60436
  lng: -122.33101
duration: up to 1.5 hrs
cancellation_policy: All sales are final. No cancellations or changes.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T21:15:24.630Z
price_from:
  amount: 27
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
rating:
  value: 4.5
  count: 2666
  scale: 5
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: Standard - General Admission
        price: 22.24
        regular_price: 27
        savings: 4.76
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (14+ yrs)
            min_age: 14
          - name: Senior (65+ yrs)
            min_age: 65
          - name: Youth (5-13 yrs)
            min_age: 5
            max_age: 13
          - name: Child (0-4 yrs)
            min_age: 0
            max_age: 4
---
## Overview

Soar above Seattle's skyline at the Sky View Observatory and enjoy panoramic views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Cascade Mountains from 902 feet. Experience Seattle from a whole new perspective atop the Columbia Center observatory.

## What's Included

- Admission to the Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center in Seattle.
- Access to 360-degree panoramic views of Seattle landmarks including the Space Needle, Downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mt. Rainier, Bellevue, and surrounding mountain ranges.
- Use of the observatory's digital guide for a virtual city tour and itinerary planning.
- Elevator ride to the 73rd floor observatory.
- Access to Sky View Café & Bar for food and drinks (credit cards only; no cash).

## What's Not Included

Outside food and beverages are not permitted in Sky View Observatory.

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:start -->
## Ticket Options

- **Standard - General Admission** — $22.24 (regularly $27.00, save $4.76)
  Experience stunning 360-degree views of the iconic Seattle skyline with Sky View Observatory - Columbia Center tickets. The standard ticket is valid for general admission to the Sky View Observatory and Cafe.
  - Adult (14+ yrs)
  - Senior (65+ yrs)
  - Youth (5-13 yrs)
  - Child (0-4 yrs)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:end -->

## Good to Know

* Visitors typically spend 45-90 minutes; plan to arrive earlier than your scheduled admission time to avoid delays.
* Children ages 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
* Children ages 4 and under visit free; free child tickets can be picked up at the box office.
* Last elevator ride to the observatory is one hour before closing.
* Sky View Café & Bar closes 30 minutes prior to the observatory closing.
* The restaurant accepts credit cards only; cash is no longer accepted.
* Strollers are allowed but may need to be folded in the elevator if space is limited.
* Tripods and selfie sticks for personal use are permitted; please be respectful of other guests.
* Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
* Public restrooms are available in the central observatory area.
* Gift shop located in the atrium.
* Only ADA-defined service animals are permitted; other pets are not allowed.
* Firearms are prohibited.
* Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere within the observatory or Columbia Center.
* The stairs are only for emergency use; elevator access is required for all guests.

## Cancellation Policy

Visibility from Sky View Observatory varies with Seattle’s weather conditions. On days when visibility may be poor, signage will be posted in the box office saying so. On the rare occasion of zero visibility, and at the discretion of Sky View Observatory, a voucher may be issued for each unused ticket, allowing for re-entry on another date and time within 14 days.

## FAQs

### What are the Seattle Sky View Observatory operating hours?

Sky View Observatory hours may vary per day, especially for holidays and for private events. Please check the operating calendar above for their hours (subject to change without notice). Last elevator up is one hour prior to closing.

### Where is the Sky View Observatory located?

Sky View Observatory is within walking distance from the waterfront and downtown hotels, and one block east of LINK Light Rail Pioneer Square Tunnel Station. Once inside Columbia Center, head over to the 1st-floor Atrium and take the elevator to the 73rd floor.

### Can I bring my kids to Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center?

Yes, Sky View Observatory is great for kids and guests of all ages. Plus, children ages 4 and under can visit the observatory for free. Simply pick up free child tickets for them at the box office.

### How much time do I need to visit Sky View Observatory?

Time will vary by visitor. Your timed ticket is based on a 30 minute entry window (e.g. an 11am ticket entitles admission between 11-11:30am). Upon arrival to the observatory itself, plan to spend about 45 to 90 minutes to complete your visit.

### What if there’s zero visibility on the day I plan to visit?

Visibility from Sky View Observatory varies with Seattle’s weather conditions. On days when visibility may be poor, signage will be posted in the box office saying so. On the rare occasion of zero visibility, and at the discretion of Sky View Observatory, a voucher may be issued for each unused ticket, allowing for re-entry on another date and time within 14 days.

### What if I arrive later than my entry time?

Late arrivals will be accommodated based on capacity, so you might be asked to wait until the next open time slot. We strongly encourage you to arrive earlier than your scheduled time to avoid any delays.

### Are strollers allowed?

Yes, strollers are allowed. You may be asked to remove your child from your stroller and fold it up when entering the elevator if extra space is needed.

### Can I take pictures?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take as many personal photos or videos with handheld devices as they’d like.

### Are tripods and other professional equipment allowed?

Personal use of tripods and selfie sticks are permitted at Sky View Observatory. Please remember to be respectful of fellow guests and not block pathways or obstruct views.

### Can I bring food or drinks?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted in Sky View Observatory.

### Are dining and concessions available at Sky View Observatory?

Food, specialty cocktails, and mocktails are available for purchase at the on-site Sky View Cafe & Bar.

### Are there public restrooms at Sky View Observatory?

Yes, restrooms are located in the central part of the Sky View Observatory.

### Does the Sky View Observatory have a gift shop? 

Yes, the gift shop is located in the atrium.

### Are pets allowed?

Only ADA-defined service animals are welcome. Please note that all other animals are not permitted in the Sky View Observatory.

### Can I bring my licensed firearm?

Firearms are not permitted at Sky View Observatory or Columbia Center.

### Is smoking permitted at Sky View Observatory?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere within the observatory or Columbia Center.

### Can children visit Sky View Observatory by themselves?

To gain independent admission, guests must be at least 16 years of age. Younger children must be escorted by an adult.

### Can I use the stairs to go up and down?

The stairs can only be used in case of an emergency. All guests must access the observatory by elevator.

## Reviews

> "MUST SEE!!"
> — R2318UXerikac, July 14, 2025

> "A Wonderful View"
> — aaronmshelby, July 08, 2025

> "Love it here"
> — X410AYrebeccah, February 08, 2025

> "Clear views"
> — aprilhC623YM, December 16, 2024